The good news is that you can build a second house even if space is tight because of where you reside. More and more neighbourhoods have limited lots. Therefore, compact dwellings like granny flats are in high demand. Even if you have a narrow lot, you can still build a granny flat because it can be tailored to fit any space.
We'll define a narrow granny flat and discuss design strategies for making the most of available square footage.
What Is A Granny Flat?
"granny flat" refers to a separate dwelling unit attached to a single-family house. It can comfortably accommodate one or two persons. Although some granny flats are up to 1,200 square feet, many of these constructions are so small that they more accurately fit the definition of a tiny house. For homeowners with limited space and a need for convenience, an attached granny flat may be the ideal solution. This type of structure can be set apart from the main house for added discretion.
The homeowner's size and preferences determine what conveniences can be found in a granny flat. Some granny flats, for instance, are just scaled-down copies of regular houses. Some prefer less elaborate arrangements, such as a countertop microwave and mini-fridge. For this reason, family members who relocate to a granny flat will likely have to minimise their possessions and lifestyle.
What Qualifies As A Narrow Granny Flat Design?
Narrow granny flats are secondary homes customised to fit narrow lots; "narrow" refers exclusively to the width of a single side of the structure. However, despite its narrowness, a granny flat can still have a sizable living area compared to other layouts.
Common Features of Narrow Granny Flats
- Narrow block: a lot with a frontage of 8.5 to 12.5 metres.
- Differently located bedrooms: Designs for granny flats on narrow lots typically place bedrooms on opposite ends of the floor plan, with the kitchen, bathroom, and other common areas in the middle.
- Rooms in a straight line, with a corridor running down the middle, are the norm.
- While building on a narrow lot presents difficulties, a well-designed granny flat may be adapted to any space.
How Narrow Are the Possible Designs for Granny Flats?
Narrow granny flats typically have at least one side that is 5.5 metres or less in width, though there are no hard and fast rules. The standard width for a two-bedroom Granny flat is 4.5m. The width restrictions imposed by your local government will also play a role in determining how compact your design may be. If you want tailored counsel, talk to a granny flat builder.
Did you know that a granny flat with two bedrooms, a kitchen, dining area, laundry room, storage space, and bathroom can be built into a narrow design while maintaining functionality? The value of hiring an expert lies in making strategic decisions throughout the layout design phase.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Narrow Granny Flat Layout
Small parcels can contain enormous surprises. There's no reason for your new granny flat to feel claustrophobic just because it's on the narrow side. Let's look at ways to make your granny flat feel more open and airy.
Large Windows
One of the most effective ways to increase the sense of spaciousness in a structure is to increase the number of windows. Ensure your designer knows where you want your windows to go to receive the most natural light in your space. You can make the apartment darker for movie days or for added privacy by installing high-quality curtains, louvres, or blinds.
Neutral Tones Of Paint
A room's or an entire structure's mood can be completely transformed by colour. When used properly, dark tones can make a room feel warm and inviting, but they don't lend themselves to creating the illusion of open space. On the other hand, light paints are more reflective of ambient light and create the impression of increased volume.
Open Floor Plan
Your home will feel much more open and airy if it has fewer walls and the rooms are connected. Open floor designs have become the norm in Australian homes because of the positive social effects of the extra space they provide. It's a style option to make your granny flat comfortable and practical. Combining the kitchen, living room, and dining space is another option.
Natural Light Should Be Embraced.
We could fill an entire blog post discussing the merits of a granny flat that uses natural light well. The more natural light you invite into your home, the bigger it will feel. Larger windows, skylights, and a smart layout can help you do this. Sunlight will brighten your home without increasing utility costs, making any room appear larger and more open.
Furnish Wisely
When decorating a tiny space, using numerous little pieces of furniture is a classic mistake. While I can see the reasoning behind this, it could backfire and make your granny flat feel even more crowded than it is. You can achieve both goals with fewer well-chosen, larger pieces. A well-chosen medium sofa may be more aesthetically pleasing than several alternative smaller chairs.
Decorate With The 'Less Is More' Philosophy In Mind.
If you want a space to look bigger, you should have a limited amount of stuff. Less is more, and quality over number applies to decorations like wall art, a vase on the table, and trinkets on the shelf.
Take Advantage Of The Benefits Provided By Your Choice Of Flooring.
If you choose flooring that flows well with the rest of the room, you'll get the illusion of more space. If you want to create the illusion of a larger space in your home, try installing the same flooring throughout your kitchen, living room, dining room, and entertainment room. Use flooring material with a light colour to help with the illusion.
Sliding Doors Inside
When you stop and think, you'll realise that a standard door requires a sizable opening and closing space. Wooden sliding doors are a great option for bedrooms with limited floor space because they don't require any clearance. Additionally, you may leave them open during the day to let in extra light and air into your granny flat.
Glass Sliding Doors
If you can combine two fantastic concepts into one, why not? A glass sliding door that opens to the deck is a wonderful way to allow light and air while providing access to the outdoors. A screen door allows air to flow in and helps alleviate stuffiness.
Quality Storage Options
Your new tenant could require some more space for storage, whether they are your bookworm dad or gamer kid. Plenty of built-in storage options like wardrobes, shelving, and well-designed cupboards are a great way to save room in your home.
Try A Raked Ceiling
You can take advantage of the loft area above you while planning your granny flat. When the roofline slopes upward and converges in one spot, we say that it has a raked ceiling. Your granny flat will feel more spacious because of the added height.
Mirrors
Although it's been around for a while, that doesn't make it less effective. Mirrors carefully placed can expand a room.
The Benefits That Come With Having A Smaller Living Space
It's only sometimes preferable to have a larger house. Many people believe that living in a small apartment is a disadvantage, but doing so has several benefits. After reading the following words, you will have no doubts about this. This may be a drawback for some, but it may be turned into an advantage by carefully considering your furniture selections to maximise the area at your disposal.
Less Time Spent Maintaining And Cleaning
One advantage of these smaller dwellings is the reduced time spent maintaining cleanliness. These areas require less upkeep.
Changing The Aesthetic Is Less Of A Hassle.
Living in a smaller space necessitates paring down one's possessions. Because of this, switching over the furnishings is easier and cheaper than ever before. A new season, season, season, or colour is in order.
You Are Free To Use Your Imagination.
Functional furniture is a must when living in a compact space. Maintaining the space's natural flow and harmony is important while securing adequate storage.
It's Less Difficult To Come Up With Workable Answers.
It's easier to maintain style cohesion and provide an effective overall impression when working with a constrained area.
You'll Find Creative Ways To Decorate Your Home.
You'll learn a lot thanks to the obstacles presented by the cramped quarters. The desired effect can be accomplished with a few aesthetic touches.
These are just a few benefits of living in cramped quarters. So, be reassured if your apartment is on the smaller side. There is an abundance of practical options available to you that will bring you closer to your objective.
What Possible Advantages Might You Gain From Granny Flats?
If you're the developer or owner of a granny flat, you know how useful an extra dwelling unit can be for your loved ones. Although it is intended for older people, the possibility for profit and other financial benefits make it difficult to dismiss.
Independence And Privacy
Granny flats are designed with senior citizens in mind. It allows your parents to have their own space while still being close enough to you to be easily cared for. Your parents can have some space and freedom from you.
Value Of Home Has Increased
A granny flat adds value to your home and makes it easier to sell than a home without one. The addition of a granny apartment increases the value of your main house. Potential buyers and investors alike are interested in homes with accessory dwelling units. They can be rented out if they aren't being used primarily as a parent's home.
Additional Income
If we're talking about earning possibilities, a granny flat has several faces: a studio apartment, a home office, or a commercial lease. You can utilise it as a private office for your company or as a rental unit to supplement your revenue and reduce maintenance costs.
Financial Benefits
When rented out, granny flats can also help reduce financial uncertainty. One-income households are more restricted financially than two-income households. Purchasing a granny flat to rent out in the future can provide you with a reliable and flexible source of income. The addition of a granny apartment may also reduce your taxable income. If you rent out a granny flat, you can write it off on your depreciation schedule.
It's not that people like granny flats because they're attractive. They provide your mum and dad happiness and help pay the bills. Having a second source of income is nice, but giving your loved ones their own space and freedom is priceless.
Conclusion
A granny flat is a separate dwelling unit attached to a single-family house that can comfortably accommodate one or two persons. These structures are often smaller than 1,200 square feet, making them ideal for homeowners with limited space and a need for convenience. The design of a granny flat can be tailored to fit any space, and the homeowner's size and preferences determine what conveniences can be found in a granny flat.
Narrow granny flats are secondary homes customized to fit narrow lots, with the width of a single side of the structure being the only constraint. Common features of narrow granny flats include a narrow block with a frontage of 8.5 to 12.5 meters, differently located bedrooms, and rooms in a straight line with a corridor running down the middle.
There are no hard and fast rules for narrow granny flat designs, but the standard width for a two-bedroom Granny flat is 4.5 meters. The width restrictions imposed by your local government also play a role in determining how compact your design may be. If you want tailored counsel, talk to a granny flat builder.
Living in a small living space can offer numerous benefits, including reduced maintenance and cleaning time, easier access to new seasons, the freedom to use your imagination, and the ability to find creative ways to decorate your home.
Flooring that flows well with the rest of the room can create the illusion of more space. Installing the same flooring throughout your kitchen, living room, dining room, and entertainment room can help create the illusion of a larger space. Wooden sliding doors are a great option for bedrooms with limited floor space because they don't require any clearance. Glass sliding doors that open to the deck allow light and air while providing access to the outdoors. A screen door allows air to flow in and helps alleviate stuffiness.
Quality storage options like wardrobes, shelving, and well-designed cupboards can save room in your home. Raked ceilings, when the roofline slopes upward and converges in one spot, can make your granny flat feel more spacious. Mirrors can also be an effective way to expand a room.
Living in a smaller living space can lead to several advantages, such as less time spent maintaining and cleaning, changing the aesthetic, being free to use your imagination, and finding creative ways to decorate your home. Granny flats are designed with senior citizens in mind, allowing parents to have their own space while still being close enough to you to be easily cared for.
The value of your home has increased due to the addition of a granny flat, making it easier to sell than a home without one. Potential buyers and investors are interested in homes with accessory dwelling units, which can be rented out if they aren't being used primarily as a parent's home.
Additional income can be gained from a granny flat through various options, such as a studio apartment, home office, or commercial lease. Renting out a granny flat can provide a reliable and flexible source of income, as well as reduce taxable income. If you rent out a granny flat, you can write it off on your depreciation schedule.
Granny flats are not just attractive but also provide happiness and help pay the bills. While having a second source of income is nice, giving your loved ones their own space and freedom is priceless.
Content Summary:
- The good news is that you can build a second house even if space is tight because of where you reside.
- Therefore, compact dwellings like granny flats are in high demand.
- Even if you have a narrow lot, you can still build a granny flat because it can be tailored to fit any space.
- We'll define a narrow granny flat and discuss design strategies for making the most of available square footage.
- For homeowners with limited space and a need for convenience, an attached granny flat may be the ideal solution.
- The homeowner's size and preferences determine what conveniences can be found in a granny flat.
- Narrow granny flats are secondary homes customised to fit narrow lots; "narrow" refers exclusively to the width of a single side of the structure.
- If you want tailored counsel, talk to a granny flat builder.
- Did you know that a granny flat with two bedrooms, a kitchen, dining area, laundry room, storage space, and bathroom can be built into a narrow design while maintaining functionality?
- Let's look at ways to make your granny flat feel more open and airy.
- One of the most effective ways to increase the sense of spaciousness in a structure is to increase the number of windows.
- Ensure your designer knows where you want your windows to go to receive the most natural light in your space.
- Your home will feel much more open and airy if it has fewer walls and the rooms are connected.
- It's a style option to make your granny flat comfortable and practical.
- We could fill an entire blog post discussing the merits of a granny flat that uses natural light well.
- The more natural light you invite into your home, the bigger it will feel.
- Larger windows, skylights, and a smart layout can help you do this.
- You can achieve both goals with fewer well-chosen, larger pieces.
- If you want a space to look bigger, you should have a limited amount of stuff.
- If you choose flooring that flows well with the rest of the room, you'll get the illusion of more space.
- If you want to create the illusion of a larger space in your home, try installing the same flooring throughout your kitchen, living room, dining room, and entertainment room.
- Use flooring material with a light colour to help with the illusion.
- Your new tenant could require some more space for storage, whether they are your bookworm dad or gamer kid.
- Plenty of built-in storage options like wardrobes, shelving, and well-designed cupboards are a great way to save room in your home.
- Many people believe that living in a small apartment is a disadvantage, but doing so has several benefits.
- This may be a drawback for some, but it may be turned into an advantage by carefully considering your furniture selections to maximise the area at your disposal.
- Living in a smaller space necessitates paring down one's possessions.
- Functional furniture is a must when living in a compact space.
- Maintaining the space's natural flow and harmony is important while securing adequate storage.
- The desired effect can be accomplished with a few aesthetic touches.
- These are just a few benefits of living in cramped quarters.
- So, be reassured if your apartment is on the smaller side.
- If you're the developer or owner of a granny flat, you know how useful an extra dwelling unit can be for your loved ones.
- Granny flats are designed with senior citizens in mind.
- Your parents can have some space and freedom from you.
- The addition of a granny apartment increases the value of your main house.
- When rented out, granny flats can also help reduce financial uncertainty.
- Purchasing a granny flat to rent out in the future can provide you with a reliable and flexible source of income.
- The addition of a granny apartment may also reduce your taxable income.
- If you rent out a granny flat, you can write it off on your depreciation schedule.
- Having a second source of income is nice, but giving your loved ones their own space and freedom is priceless.
FAQs About Granny Flat
Utilise recessed lighting, pendant lights, or wall sconces to distribute light throughout the space evenly. Avoid heavy or ornate light fixtures that can make the ceiling feel lower.
Yes, strategically placing mirrors on walls can reflect light and make the space feel larger. Consider mirrored closet doors or a large wall mirror.
Design a small outdoor patio or balcony accessible from the granny flat. This can create the illusion of an extended living area and provide a connection to the outdoors.
Opt for light and sheer curtains or blinds that allow plenty of natural light to enter. Avoid heavy drapes that can make the space feel enclosed.
Yes, consider furniture arrangements that maximise space and flow. Place larger furniture against the longest walls and use furniture with legs to create a sense of openness underneath.